KING WILLIAM’S TOWN – Efficient utilisation of resources to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms and ammunition in the province paid off when thirteen (13) firearms and sixty-two (62) ammunition were recovered during police operations in the past week, 25 – 31 January 2021.
•Information was followed up on 26 January 2021 on a Quantum with registration number JML 033 EC, that was patrolling along R61 via Ngqeleni. It was believed that the driver was in possession of a firearm and ammunition. The vehicle fitting the description was spotted parked along Ngqeleni road near Buntingville bus stop with few quantum taxis and a bakkie that collided with a quantum. Upon searching the vehicle, a 9mm PX storm pistol was found hidden underneath the driver’s seat cover, with serial number erased and one magazine loaded with 15 x 9mm cartridges. The vehicle was impounded as well and the Detectives working together with Crime Intelligence are still tracing the whereabouts of the owner.
•On 25 January 2021 at about 22:00, several search warrants were executed in the Bizana area for unlicensed firearms and ammunition. At the homestead of Mr Ntsikelelo Zangwa at KwaZanga location, Bizana, a firearm (pistol) was found in his bedroom under a pillow. The suspect, 45, failed to produce a valid license for the firearm and he was immediately arrested for unlawful possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
The search warrants at other targets were negative.
A total of 213 suspects were arrested during the weekly operations. Of the 41 suspects arrested for crimes detected as a result of police action, 39 were arrested for drug related crimes, 01 was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs, while 01 was arrested for illegal possession of firearm and ammunition.
During the operations, 78 Dangerous weapons including 74 knives and four (4) scissors were also seized.
All arrested suspects appeared in various courts across province while others were issued with summons to pay fines.
Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Liziwe Ntshinga applauded the members for the arrests and confiscations. “These arrests and confiscations are direct indicators of the progress SAPS is making in tightening the grip on crime. We committed to creating safer communities even beyond Festive Season and we will continue to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms in the province,” said Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Liziwe Ntshinga, earlier today.
“Stock theft remains a concern in the province and the recovery of 2 cattle, 10 goats and 10 sheep is pleasing as the stock represents the livelihood of many citizens in the Province,” she concluded.

Source: South African Police Service